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Description
At an elevation of 2703 meters with a height difference of 330 meters, this site is primarily used for soaring and training. It is important not to confuse this location with the Dinosaur launch in Utah, which is a more popular cross-country spot.
No flight logs have been recorded for this site.
For more detailed information, visit: [Williams Site Guide](https://rmhpa.org/williams-site-guide/).
The Dinosaur launch is a notable rock formation visible from HW 9, resembling a stegosaurus. To reach this launch, drive 2.6 miles up the Williams Peak road from HW 9, turn right at the fork, and continue around the backside and up, staying right, for approximately 3 minutes until you arrive at a saddle just below the rock formation. The final portion of the road includes steep switchbacks, so a high clearance or 4WD vehicle is recommended.
The Dinosaur launch features a small northwest-facing bowl with around 550 feet of relief from the road and a small landing zone (LZ) below. The launch area is covered with short grass and small shrubs, making it relatively beginner-friendly and suitable for top landing. This launch is preferred when valley winds are too strong from the north for other launches to be safe. Ridge soaring is possible here and can be particularly enjoyable if you manage to get above the Dinosaur formation. Although rare, it is possible to bench over to the main ridge with a good thermal or glass-off.
Keep in mind that the LZ below is very small and requires a decent glide to reach. Launch with a clear plan and be prepared for a potentially restricted landing.
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